In Larry McMurtry's novel "Lonesome Dove," the character Augustus experiences the effects of whiskey, which provide him with a comforting sense of warmth and tranquility. The description of feeling "nicely misty inside" evokes a serene and content state as the day transitions into evening. For Augustus, whiskey acts as a means to enhance his mood without leading him to drunkenness.
This feeling is vividly compared to a cool, foggy morning in the Tennessee hills, suggesting a connection to nature and a desire for simplicity in life. Augustus finds pleasure in these moments of relaxation, allowing him to escape the hardships of his environment while enjoying the calm of sunset.